Vietnam's military overhauls logistics with tech-driven self-reliance push

Vietnam's Party General Secretary Tô Lâm has called for major improvements in the military's logistics and technical services. The directive urges greater self-reliance, innovation, and faster adoption of advanced technology to ensure troops receive timely supplies and modern equipment. The push follows earlier recognition of the sector's contributions, including its 2023 'Hero of the People's Armed Forces' award.

During a recent review, Tô Lâm instructed the General Department of Logistics and Technical Services to take a more proactive approach. He emphasised the need for better forecasting of global military trends and quicker integration of scientific breakthroughs into defence systems. The focus lies on strategic autonomy, with a push to develop both specialised and dual-use products.

The department must also reform its logistics and technical support frameworks. Requirements now cover training, combat readiness, disaster response, and epidemic control. Living conditions and healthcare for servicemen and women are to be upgraded as part of the overhaul.

Innovation remains a top priority, particularly in weapon systems and critical technical equipment. Military research institutions have been tasked with improving the quality of their scientific work. The goal is to absorb cutting-edge advancements and apply them directly to logistics and defence technology.

The directive sets clear expectations for Vietnam's military logistics sector. Strategic weapon systems, research quality, and troop welfare are now central to its modernisation plans. While no recent updates on digitalisation or infrastructure upgrades have been documented, the push for self-reliance signals a shift toward a more technologically driven defence strategy.